Atlanta Hawks: 3 players not likely to return in 2020-21

WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 06: Jeff Teague #00 of the Atlanta Hawks dribbles against the Washington Wizards during the first half at Capital One Arena on March 06, 2020 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Will Newton/Getty Images) /

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3. DeAndre’ Bembry

Giving up on former first-round picks is not easy for any franchise. But there’s some valid concern that DeAndre’ Bembry has topped out in his career and may not be able to progress any further in Atlanta.

The 21st overall pick of the 2016 NBA Draft had his best season in 2018-19. He played in all 82 games of a season for the first time in his career, averaging a career-best 8.4 points, 4.4 rebounds and 2.5 steals per game.

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This season, however, Bembry has taken a step back in all of those categories. He’s averaging just 5.8 points, 3.5 rebounds and 1.9 assists per game, with a more precarious position in the rotation. He’s not helping matters from three-point range, shooting just 23.1 percent.

David Aldridge of The Athletic reported earlier this year that the Hawks fielded calls about Bembry at the trade deadline. He’ll be 26 years old when the 2020-21 season commences, suggesting his development is not going to go much further than it already has.

Atlanta extended a qualifying offer to Bembry, making him a restricted free agent this offseason. Coming in at $3.75 million, it’s likely at least one team will choose to exceed that. If and when that happens, the Hawks should take advantage of their other young up-and-comers and move on from Bembry.

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